Step into Japan’s rich cultural and natural heritage on a full-day tour from Tokyo. Visit the ornate Nikko Toshogu Shrine, marvel at the powerful Kegon Waterfall, and enjoy your choice of a lakeside stroll or traditional hot spring experience before returning to the city.
Highlights
- Explore the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most important shrines
- Admire the grandeur of Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan’s top three most beautiful falls
- Choose between a scenic walk along Lake Chuzenji or a soothing soak in a traditional Nikko hot spring
- Travel through the famous Irohazaka Slope, known for its winding beauty and autumn foliage
- Shop for traditional goods at the unique Onihei Edo-style service area
Full Description
Start your adventure by meeting your guide at 7:50 AM on the ground floor of the Shinjuku Subaru Building near Shinjuku JR Station (west exit). Your comfortable bus will depart at 8:00 AM for Tochigi Prefecture, where Nikko awaits.
First stop: Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Arrive around 10:30 AM to explore the lavishly decorated Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu—the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Your guide will share fascinating stories and legends about the shrine’s history and symbolism as you explore the richly detailed carvings and intricate architecture.
Pass through Irohazaka Winding Road
On your way to the next destination, enjoy views of the legendary Irohazaka Slope—a series of 48 tight curves renowned for their vibrant fall colors and pop culture fame in anime like Initial D.
Next: Kegon Waterfall
At around 12:30 PM, arrive at Kegon Falls, a majestic 100-meter-high cascade ranked among Japan’s top three waterfalls. Enjoy lunch nearby, take in the misty beauty, and capture photos of one of nature’s most spectacular sights.
Optional Afternoon Experience:
At 2:00 PM, you’ll choose between two personalized experiences:
- Walk along Lake Chuzenji, a serene crater lake at the foot of Mount Nantai, surrounded by peaceful scenery and shops
- Or, unwind in a traditional Nikko hot spring, soaking in mineral-rich waters with scenic views (entrance included)
Final Stop: Onihei Edo Service Area
Before returning to Tokyo, visit the uniquely themed Onihei Edo-style rest stop, where you can browse Edo-period-style architecture and pick up traditional snacks or souvenirs.
Return to Tokyo around 6:00 PM at the Shinjuku Subaru Building, where the tour concludes.
Itinerary
Departure Options:
- Sumitomo Mitsui Bank, Shinjuku Nishiguchi Branch
- Yaesu, Tokyo Station area
Key Stops:
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine – Sightseeing (75 minutes)
- Irohazaka Slope – Scenic drive (20 minutes)
- Kegon Falls – Sightseeing, lunch (75 minutes)
- Lake Chuzenji or Nikko Onsen – Your choice (45 minutes)
- Onihei Edo Service Area – Brief stop on return trip
Arrival back in Tokyo: Approx. 6:00 PM
Pricing
From ¥14,989 per person
What’s Included
- Entrance ticket to Toshogu Shrine
- Admission to Nikko Onsen (or optional souvenir – Golden Castella)
- English-speaking tour guide
- Round-trip transportation by coach
Meeting Points
- From Shinjuku Station
- From Tokyo Station (Yaesu area)
Exact meeting point details provided upon booking
Reviews
“Excellent day out with enough time at each stop. Nothing felt rushed. The shrine was especially beautiful.”
“Unfortunately the weather wasn’t ideal, but the guide and driver were great. Learned a lot about Japan beyond just the tour!”
“Really appreciated the guided commentary on the bus and the free time at each location. Highly recommend the optional audio guide at Toshogu Shrine.”
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